The new E-Series line of skid steer loaders and compact track loaders (CTLs) from John Deere includes five skid steer models and four new compact track loaders, each with interim Tier Four or final Tier Four engines.
The improvements made to the E-Series skid steers and CTLs are the result of extensive market research and John Deere’s Customer Advisory Group (CAG) process, which solicits input and ideas from customers. For the E-Series, customer input largely dealt with areas of the machines that improve on uptime, productivity, and a lower daily operating costs.
The large-frame skid steers and CTLs feature a flat-floor design with 25% more foot room than previous models, giving operators more comfort in the cab. Lower noise levels also contribute to reduced operator fatigue and increased productivity. All models include low-effort electro-hydraulic (EH) controls for additional comfort and ease of operation. The EH controls are available for ISO, H, and foot control patterns. In addition, the E-Series features an option to allow the operator to switch between all three previously mentioned industry control patterns.
Other new standard features include connect-under-pressure auxiliary hydraulic couplers, and a new courtesy lighting feature that automatically shuts the machine lights off after operation.
The mid-frame models have been improved to enhance performance and make the machines more versatile. The optimized boom design provides best-in-class boom and bucket breakout throughout the lift path. It also offers greater reach at truck-bed height and increases lift height to the hinge pin.
In addition to the standard improvements, both the large- and mid-frame E-Series models offer several options that further enhance ease-of-use and productivity. Like its larger siblings, the mid-frames also include the option for switchable controls to allow operators to choose between foot pedals, ISO and H-pattern. Other options include a new keyless start feature and a ride control option that cushions the boom under heavy load for a smoother ride.
The E-Series offers several customer favored features that carried forward from the D-Series, including a pressurized cab with best-in-class visibility, auto-idle to help conserve fuel and best-in-class service access. In addition, industry-leading options such as the reversing fan will also be available.
The skid steers and CTLs are powered by Yanmar 3.3L or 3.1L diesel engines. The large-frame model engines provide up to 10% more horsepower than the previous D-Series models. Engines over 75 hp will meet interim Tier 4 emissions requirements, while engines under 75 hp will be final Tier 4 compliant. The engines in all E-Series models feature cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) with an exhaust filter consisting of a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) and diesel particulate filter (DCF).
The E-Series consists of nine total models. In skid steers, there are three large-frame models (326E, 328E, 332E) and two mid-frame models (318E, 320E). In CTLs, there are two large-frame models (329E, 333E) and two mid-frame models (319E, 323E). All models will be compatible with more than 100 available Worksite Pro attachments for optimal jobsite performance.
